Yemen Conflict Escalates Between Saudi and UAE-Backed Forces

The article discusses the escalating conflict in Yemen between Saudi Arabia and UAE-backed forces. The Southern Transitional Council (STC), backed by the UAE, has launched offensives in eastern Yemen, prompting Saudi Arabia to call for a 'dialogue' in Riyadh. The conflict has brought the two Gulf powers into direct confrontation, with Saudi Arabia accusing the UAE of pressuring the STC to launch the offensive. The UAE has denied the allegations but has agreed to withdraw its forces from Yemen. The conflict has raised concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, with over 19 million people requiring assistance. The STC's ambitions for an independent state in southern Yemen have been clear for years, and the recent escalations are seen as a long time coming.

The article discusses a recent lightning advance by separatists in Yemen's civil war, which has reshaped the conflict and deepened the rift between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE has announced its withdrawal of troops from Yemen following Saudi Arabia's backing of the Yemeni government's demand for their departure. The article highlights the complexities of the conflict, including the involvement of various regional players and the impact on the local population.

Yemen's southern separatist movement, backed by the United Arab Emirates, has announced a constitution and plans to hold a referendum on independence from the north. The move is seen as an escalation of tensions between the separatists and Saudi Arabia, which supports Yemen's internationally recognized government. The Saudi-led coalition, which includes the UAE, has been fighting Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in the north. The declaration could set back efforts to avert an outright conflict between the separatists and the rest of the coalition. The UAE has announced it is pulling its troops out of Yemen, and Saudi Arabia has bombed STC forces and struck what it said was a shipment of Emirati weapons destined for the separatists.